Lucille Roybal-Allard: “I rise to support H.R. 1495, the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. This bill, which authorizes water projects…”

“I rise to support H.R. 1495, the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. This bill, which authorizes water projects through the Army Corps of Engineers, is essential to maintaining and improving our Nation's vital water resources and infrastructure. This bill is long overdue. Congress has been unable to enact a comprehensive WRDA bill since the year 2000. Without Federal resources authorized in this bill, critical projects needed to sustain and protect America's water needs into the future have been stalled. I commend Chairman Oberstar for his leadership and steadfast commitment to this vital issue. I thank his hardworking staff, who worked long hours to complete this bill, which is a top priority of our new Democratic Congress. As a representative from southern California where water is a scare and precious resource, I appreciate the distinguished Chairman's efforts to put forth a bill that advances essential water resource infrastructure projects in the region. I am particularly pleased that this legislation includes an historic authorization for revitalization efforts along the Los Angeles River. The $20 million authorization contained within the bill will mark a significant Federal commitment to transforming the LA River from an unsightly concrete flood control channel into green space that will promote badly needed recreation, housing and job creation opportunities.”